For most parents the idea of sending their child across the sea to find a new home unaccompanied is ludicrous and not something they would ever consider.

However, for thousands of parents who are living in war-torn, famine-stricken countries, or under a regime that deprives them of human rights, this is a reality.

Sculptor Drew Edwards, from Finchley, decided this reality is something that all should be made aware of, with 91 percent of children travelling unaccompanied to new countries.

It is this that drove him to create Children of the Mediterranean, a sculpture showing 91 figures of refugee children who drowned as they travelled or were trafficked across the sea.

Drew says: “The more we see and hear about children drowning and fleeing conflict zones throughout the world, the number we become. 

"It’s media fatigue, and the unforgivable has become palatable. I hope it will make people ponder for a moment how privileged we are to live in one of the richest and safest democracies on earth, and perhaps consider how they can help more.

“Children are the most vulnerable and defenceless members of society, and with the ongoing conflict in Syria but also beyond in a myriad other places, it’s vital we don’t forget them.”

The 51-year-old’s latest creation will be unveiled today at Middlesex University’s Ritterman building, which he was moved to spend two years creating after seeing the lifeless body of a child washed up on the beach in Greece in the news.

Drew has also created sculptures to bring awareness to other events including a memorial after Grenfell Tower and a “memorial angel” which stands outside the children’s cancer unit at Finchley Memorial Hospital.

And for all of his work, Drew accepts no funds, garnering the title of the “penniless philanthropist”.

Children of the Mediterranean will be unveiled at the university at 2pm.